Overview & Reviews

When the Chrysler Crossfire concept was first introduced at the 2001 North American International Auto Show, there was genuine interest and excitement from both the motoring press and the public. Here was the first tantalizing fruit of the DaimlerChrysler merger that would combine German engineering and American style. A production model was announced, and the first Crossfires started to appear a few years later.

Available as a two-seat coupe or roadster, the Chrysler Crossfire was largely based on the first-generation Mercedes-Benz SLK. Its exterior design always turned heads, but the aged platform and unimpressive driving dynamics were major drawbacks. The Crossfire's steering response in particular was lackluster due to the use of the previous SLK's old-school recirculating-ball steering. Additionally, the vehicle's ride quality often seemed harsh, particularly on the high-performance SRT-6 version.

The Crossfire's slow sales could also be attributed to an interior that didn't look as rich as the car's exterior styling would suggest. There was also the cramped Crossfire's utter lack of utility. It's still an attractive vehicle to behold, but the Crossfire was simply outclassed by other vehicles in terms of luxury, brand cachet and performance.

Most Recent Chrysler Crossfire

The Chrysler Crossfire was available only in coupe form when it debuted in 2004, with a convertible model arriving the next year. The standard engine throughout the model cycle was a Mercedes-sourced 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine that produced 215 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. The transmission choice was between a standard six-speed manual and an optional five-speed automatic. The short-lived 2005-'06 Crossfire SRT-6 model boasted a sport-tuned suspension and a fire-breathing, supercharged 330-hp engine that came only with a five-speed automatic.

Leather upholstery was standard in 2004, when only one well-equipped trim level was offered, but starting in 2005 the Crossfire was offered in base and Limited trims, and the base car came with cloth upholstery and a limited roster of standard equipment. The Limited livened things up with power leather seats, an Infinity stereo and more sound insulation. In addition to its engine and suspension upgrades, the SRT-6 models added 18-inch wheels up front and 19-inchers out back and Napa Pearl leather seats with Alcantara suede inserts with enhanced bolstering. Unique to the base Roadster was an optional Special Edition package (2006 and '07 model years) that included Inferno Red Crystal Pearl Coat exterior paint, Dark Slate Gray cloth seats, SRT-6–style cast-aluminum wheels, a black windshield surround and satin silver door handles and side louvers. Otherwise, nothing much changed until 2008, when the base trim was dropped.

In reviews, our editors praised the Chrysler Crossfire's daringly distinctive looks, and the SRT-6 was loved for its blistering straight-line performance. However, the outdated steering system was unpleasant and the ride was stiff — unacceptably so in the SRT-6. Acceleration from the base 215-hp V6 was adequate but uninspiring. Overall, the Crossfire was an interesting styling exercise, but its driving character left much to be desired.

User Reviews:

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  After 1 Yr - Love my Crossfire Convert!! - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By thomasrayw - February 20 - 11:16 am

  Ive had my Crossfire Convertible for 13 months and I love it. I got the first one delivered to the dealer. Its been dependable, fun to drive, and it definitely turns heads. In that time, I have only seen one other on the road, and I like that exclusiveness. Ive seen about 10 coupes in the same period. The car is beautiful, especially with the top down. I would like a little more horsepower, but I would still choose this car over the 350Z, Z4, or S2000. I did have a transmission leak after only 3 months, but the dealer took care of that and its been fine since. (I just might have been driving it too hard!)

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  Amazing Car - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Tony - February 15 - 11:56 am

  I cannot believe I purchased a 2004 Crossfire with 12k miles on it for 20k at Carmax. This car is beautiful, fast and fun and has the reliability of any other mercedes. It turns heads everwhere it goes.

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  Drive one - you will see! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mark - February 9 - 4:09 pm

  Dream car - a gift to myself after three years overseas. Tested many GTs some costing twice as much. Amazing build quality, great handling, exotic car looks. Body is a work of art. No repairs and no prblems at all. Would buy another without hesitation! Make mine black. Drive one and you will buy it.

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  Crossfire is a winner - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By W Michaels - February 1 - 2:00 am

  I just hit 2,000 miles on my new Crossfire and its been the most pleasurable 2,000 I heve ever driven. I cant say enough about how fun this car is to drive. For those who think this car is underpowered I would sugest that you buy a Viper. For those who want a car thats a blast to drive buy a Crossfire.

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  Superb handling and performance - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By coupe - January 26 - 2:32 pm

  We use our vehicle as a daily driver and find the ease of manuvering in traffic on streets or freeways. For such a short wheelbase I am amazed at the smoothness of the ride. Performance as far as acceleration is superb. Braking is fantastic. I have put on over 12,000 km and had no problems. Room in the vehicle is great as you dont touch the roof or bump shoulders. I have driven many sport and luxury cars in my life and have to say that this is truly a great vehicle.

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  Great Car, Horrible Cup Holder! - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By haggebaby - January 22 - 6:33 pm

  I have had my Crossfire for almost a year now and have no major complaints. I love the style, and the feeling I get when I cruise around. Speed is good, Gas is better then I thought it was going to be. My car is a daily driver and has exceeded my expectations, especially in the snow.

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  My Ebony Princess - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By BearsMom - January 15 - 10:00 am

  This is one of the finest vehicle I have owned or driven in my life-and 30+ years of owning vehicles. She is a comfortable and cute little princess with great handling around town or on the Interstate. She is a real head turner and has one flaw-the steering wheel only telescopes and does not adjust up or down. Alas, she is a joy to be enveloped in and experience the drive/ride!

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  Crossfire under my feet - 2004 Chrysler Crossfire
  By ChrisCross - January 6 - 6:49 pm

  The Crossfire is a pleasure to own and drive! The exterior design gets a lot of looks and thumbs up! I love being able to control this vehicle and make turns with no problems and quick responses. I have a 6-speed and am so pleased with the feel of it.

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  Chryslers SLK , Slick & Quick . - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By E. McCue - January 4 - 10:16 am

  Its close to get into for a 225 lb. 6 1" body but once Im belted in I love it. Interior looks like and feels like and smells like and handles like and if you pop the hood you would see that german auto company stickers all over the place,You might think its an SLK. I think I saved a big chunk a change when My grandson inherited my 2000 mustang convertible,upon graduation from high shool, And we replaced it with the Crossfire.He received a completly updated 5-speed Ford with 30,000 mi. I received the best part of the deal I think. We are both happy

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  Regular Folks Mercedes - 2005 Chrysler Crossfire
  By Mistie Rich - December 25 - 5:03 am

  Drives like a Vette, hugs the road, plenty of pep. Really is a stand out car, truly exciting. The car has the Mercedes drive line and is quality all the way.